French and Spanish: Sathya Krishnamurthy

Sathya, a credited student from India, studied Spanish and Pre-intermediate French at the University Language Centre (ULC).

Why did you choose to study a language at the University of Manchester?

I think when a student is exposed to subjects that are closely related to one field, it is important to diversify one's interests. Languages seemed to be a good way of doing that for me.

The University of Manchester offers a great exposure in order to learn a new language with regards to the standard of teaching as well as the methods, and this motivated me to try and learn a new language.

Apart from class time, how much time did you spend a week on your studies?

I would spend a couple of hours a week doing some independent study. This would include watching movies in the language I was learning, which was truly useful.

How did you find your course in terms of level?

I felt that I was placed at a level that suited my standard and potential.

What did you most enjoy about your course?

While both the language classes that I was enrolled into were extremely interesting because of the excellent teachers, the most enjoyable factor of the course was being able to interact with different types of colleagues who also have a passion for the same language. This pushed me to engage in conversations with different types of people, and this eventually resulted in me making new friends.

Have you been able to put your newly acquired language skills to use outside the classroom? If so, please tell us how.

I had studied French for two years and, incidentally, in one of those years I had the chance to visit Quebec, which is a French-speaking province. I had the opportunity to converse in French during my travels and while I did make a couple of mistakes along the way, it did make it possible for me to communicate in French more fluently.

Occasionally, I would try to converse with my friends who are French speakers. I believe that it is all about each person's interest to learn the language they are most passionate about.

What advice would you give to someone intending to study a language at the University Language Centre?

My advice would be to actively engage in learning the language you are passionate about. Do not just stop learning it after you are done with the course at university. I implore you to further engage in it because the University Language Centre gives you a good base to start off your learning.

And beyond this, my advice would be to enjoy every moment of it. Time flies faster than the wind when you are learning with the ULC, so savour every moment and make the most use of the facilities provided to you.